Whether you’re trying to protect a patio surface, prevent slips and falls, or you’re simply looking to up your outdoor area’s style, there’s no shortage of reasons to buy an outdoor rug. Shopping for an outdoor rug, however, can be tricky. With so many materials to choose from — polypropylene, polyester, nylon — picking an outdoor rug can be more of an undertaking than you bargained for. To help, we’re spotlighting three common rug materials and giving you a cheatsheet for each!
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Polypropylene
Also known as Olefin, Polypropylene rugs are water-resistant, stain-resistant and fade-resistant. They’re also able to handle a high amount of foot traffic, making them ideal for busy backyard areas. If Polypropylene sounds like a miracle material, you wouldn’t be wrong — but it does come with a caveat. Those envisioning a soft, indoor-grade rug outdoors won’t find that with Polypropylene. These rugs tend to skew a bit more plastic than plush. (Envision a beach mat or woven beach chair and you get the picture.) That said, they showcase vivid colors and can be printed to resemble intricately-patterned indoor rugs.
Polyester
For something that feels more like a traditional indoor rug underfoot, try a polyester-based rug. These rugs present more like a traditional textile, making them ideal for areas where we want a truly elevated feel. That said, these rugs don’t breathe as well as Polypropylene, so you may want to avoid them if you live in a particularly damp or humid climate, as they’re prone to growing mold. While they’re top of the line in the anti-fade department, oil-based spills are their nemesis, so many designers are wary of placing them under outdoor dining tables.
Nylon
Similar to Polypropylene, Nylon rugs are easy to clean and propel moisture and stains. They’re also game for heavy foot traffic. Their one drawback? They heat up under the sun and can get uncomfortably hot underfoot. Save these vividly-colored rugs for covered patios or under the pergola.
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Lead photo design by Kelly Hohla Interiors / Photo by John Merkl